On October 10, 2024, Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse introduced Int. 1082, legislation mandating the NYC Commissioner of Small Business Services to conduct a study and report on the fees and costs required to start and maintain small businesses in New York City – with particular focus on certified minority- or women-owned businesses (M/WBEs). The bill defines small business to cover those that meet the size standards under the code of federal regulations, are not a franchise … <Read More>
City Council
Council Releases Report on State of Park Restrooms
On September 5, 2024, the City Council released Nature’s Call, a report about the functionality and conditions of over 100 restrooms in city parks. The report followed an investigation led by the Council’s Oversight and Investigation Division in partnership with the Council’s Community Engagement Division and Parks Committee Chair Council Member Shekar Krishnan’s office. The report found that two-thirds of the inspected restrooms – or 68 out of 102 – were closed or had … <Read More>
Council Passes Two Bills to Help with Shelter Intake Process for Families with Children
On August 15, 2024, the City Council passed two bills to improve the shelter intake process for families with children.
Council Approves Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan
On August 15, 2024, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in collaboration with critical stakeholders celebrated New York City Council’s approval of the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan. Four new Metro-North stations will be coming to the Parkchester/Van Nest, Morris Park, Hunts Point, and Co-op City neighborhoods in the Bronx by 2027. The plan complements the construction of these stations by adding more housing, job opportunities, and enhanced public spaces around the Morris Park and … <Read More>
Council Passes Bill Requiring Proactive Inspection Program for Buildings
On June 20, 2024, the New York City Council passed Int. 904 A. This legislation requires the Department of Buildings (DOB) to establish a proactive inspection program aimed at identifying hazardous building conditions. This bill was created in response to last winter’s collapse of a residential building which left many families displaced at 1915 Billingsley Terrace in the Bronx, and the fatal April 2023 collapse of a parking garage at 57 Ann Street in Lower … <Read More>
Council Approves City of Yes for Economic Opportunity Amendment
On June 6, 2024, the City Council voted to approve the City of Yes for Economic Opportunity zoning text amendment. The amendment is one of three City of Yes zoning text amendments proposed by the Adams administration to address outdated provisions within the zoning text that unnecessarily restrict or limit housing, the implementation of green technology and infrastructure, and economic development.